ASMP to hold major copyright symposium

Philadelphia, March 10, 2010 /PN/ The American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) will present an important symposium “Copyright and the New Economy: Issues & Trends Facing Visual Artists” on Wednesday April 21, 2010 at The TimesCenter in New York. The event is part of ASMP’s Registration Counts copyright initiative to encourage all photographers to register their work and to provide registration tools and information. Thought leaders representing different industries and points of view on copyright will explore significant issues, challenges and trends in the day-long program. The symposium is free of charge to all interested parties, and participants can register now at www.asmp.org/copyright.

According to ASMP President Richard Kelly of Pittsburgh-based Richard Kelly Photography, “ASMP believes that, in the face of sweeping changes in the way images are used and distributed, much can be gained by establishing a dialogue among representatives of the visual arts community, legal and governmental experts, and the publishing industry.” ASMP’s Executive Director Eugene Mopsik added, “This symposium is intended to seek sustainable business solutions by engaging in an important conversation about economic shifts in the industry, the current state of copyright, and what the future holds for those who produce and use visual works.” A video of the symposium will be made available on the ASMP website following the event.

ASMP has been a leader in copyright registration, and is currently offering free workshops around the country on how photographers can register their work. Workshop participants learn the importance of copyright registration, common mistakes, and how to register their work with a step-by-step guide. To find out more about the workshops, go to http://asmp.org/asmp-seminar-registration-workshop.

ASMP is the premier trade association for photographers who create images primarily for publication. Founded in 1944, ASMP is the leader in promoting photographers’ rights, providing education in better business practices, producing business publications for photographers, and helping to connect purchasers with professional photographers. ASMP has 39 chapters across the country, and its members include many of the world’s foremost photographers. More information is available at http://www.asmp.org.